[Elecraft] Elecraft antennas in trees
Another warning! A few years ago I used a catapult and a drilled golf ball with some braided nylon line over an oak tree. When it became stuck in a branch, I wound the line round a piece of wood and gave it my full weight to release it. The end result? I literally shot myself in the foot, breaking several small bones and was on crutches for 4 weeks. The braided line probably had a breaking strain of at least 300lb so I had devised a pretty effective self-destruction machine. I'm just glad it didn't hit me a few feet higher! The funniest part was trying to explain to the guy in the Accident Emergency Department how I broke my foot with a golf ball and then listening to his sniggers as he told the story to his colleagues. These days I use a lead fishing weight with some fluorescent mono-filament fishing line. I can get it to 60 feet plus, but if it gets stuck, I pull back very, very slowly to prevent it winding around a branch. Be careful! Tom G3OLB ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
Jon Kåre Hellan wrote: It's http://www.antennalaunchers.com/csv19/index.html - with an 'l' at the end. That's better. Note that anyone thinking of using this in England might be advised to consult with the local police as it might be interpreted as being an air rifle, in which case the muzzle energy is more than three times the limit above which a firearms certificate would be needed. (The limit is 12 foot pounds, but the potential energy at the top of the arc is 150 * 0.25, i.e. 37.5 foot pounds, and tennis balls will have high enough drag that the launch energy will be significantly higher.) The situation in England seems to depend on the words lethal and weapon. It appears that the rules in South Africa are simpler, and it looks like it would definitely be classified as a firearm there. The muzzle energy limit is also lower. The only air weapon exemptions appear to be for calibres less than .22, and I haven't seen many .21 inch 4oz tennis balls. The definition doesn't depend on ability to cause harm or the use of the word weapon. It looks like it would also be a firearm in Canada, with an even lower muzzle energy limit. The uncertainty there is whether or not it could cause serious injury. Batton rounds, with less than 4 times the muzzle energy have killed people, e.g. recently during a firearms training exercise in the UK. -- David Woolley The Elecraft list is a forum for the discussion of topics related to Elecraft products and more general topics related ham radio List Guidelines http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_list_guidelines.htm ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
This is Alan's site (as is the previous posting). I whole heartedly recommend the CSV-19. It is simple to use and effective, particularly if you have tall trees. I've tried most of the other suggested methods, and while most will work to some degree or another, they usually take multiple tries and are height limited. While this device is not cheap, if you do a lot of antenna work in your trees, this is a real time saver. Well worth the price... It's also my most borrowed piece of equipment ;o) http://www.antennalaunchers.com/antlaunching.html 73 CU in NAQP CW this weekend! Jules Julius Fazekas N2WN Tennessee Contest Group TnQP http://www.tnqp.org/ Elecraft K2/100 #3311 Elecraft K2/100 #4455 Elecraft K3/100 #366 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
The ARRL Antenna Book suggests using a pulley and counter weight to allow for the varying distances between trees caused by wind. At my former QTH, Ellijay GA, I noticed that in very gusty conditions sometimes the support trees moved in opposite directions at the same time. I decided to make my counterweight out of an eight foot length of 5/16 chain. Put about a third of the length of the chain on the ground during no wind conditions. Now as the wind moves the trees more of less of the chain gets lifted off the ground. This gives a gradual increment in the weight of the counterweight. The antenna that I had up was 88' of #18 insulatd wire up 40', center fed with 450 Ohm line. With this antenna I got into ECN on 40 and 20 using the K1 just about every time I tried. (Kevin, wish I could find a place for this type of antenna where I now live.) I was concerned about the sudden change of weight caused by a solid one piece weight hitting the ground or lifted off the ground. With one third of the chain on the ground the weight does not swing in the breeze. 73, Ty, W1TF, K1 #1423, K3 #696 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
My G5RV is up in the oak trees here and is attached using springs at each end. They are about 12 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. Been up for a couple of years with no problems. Brian N1WNC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
I use a reel with 6 lb line and a wrist rocket from Walmart with a lead fishing weight. Lay the reel on the ground and shoot the weight over the top of the tree. I try to avoid large limbs. You want the line over the soft bushy limbs. They act as a spring or shock absorber. Use the line to pull up some nylon twine then use the twine to pull up your rope. The wind can blow all it wants and those soft limbs act like a nice cushion. I've even been know to run insulated antenna wire right through a tree with no ill effects on the HF bands. Steve Ellington [EMAIL PROTECTED] - Original Message - From: Ralph Tyrrell [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, July 28, 2008 1:37 PM Subject: RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees The ARRL Antenna Book suggests using a pulley and counter weight to allow for the varying distances between trees caused by wind. At my former QTH, Ellijay GA, I noticed that in very gusty conditions sometimes the support trees moved in opposite directions at the same time. I decided to make my counterweight out of an eight foot length of 5/16 chain. Put about a third of the length of the chain on the ground during no wind conditions. Now as the wind moves the trees more of less of the chain gets lifted off the ground. This gives a gradual increment in the weight of the counterweight. The antenna that I had up was 88' of #18 insulatd wire up 40', center fed with 450 Ohm line. With this antenna I got into ECN on 40 and 20 using the K1 just about every time I tried. (Kevin, wish I could find a place for this type of antenna where I now live.) I was concerned about the sudden change of weight caused by a solid one piece weight hitting the ground or lifted off the ground. With one third of the chain on the ground the weight does not swing in the breeze. 73, Ty, W1TF, K1 #1423, K3 #696 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.138 / Virus Database: 270.5.6/1577 - Release Date: 7/28/2008 6:55 AM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees; Ant Launching [end of thread]
With close to 40 posts in the last couple of days on these topics, we've saturated this area. Let's let it rest for now. :-) 73, Eric WA6HHQ Elecraft List Moderator ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
I had those 12 inch springs once at a location where I live. Most of the time I just put up a 130 ft dipole and feed it with ladder line and let the good times roll!! G --- On Mon, 7/28/08, Brian [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: From: Brian [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Monday, July 28, 2008, 1:41 PM My G5RV is up in the oak trees here and is attached using springs at each end. They are about 12 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. Been up for a couple of years with no problems. Brian N1WNC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
Benny Aumala wrote: http://www.antennalaunchers.com/csv19/index.htm That URL seems to lead to a cybersquatter (the sort that gives you their search engine results). It might, though, be worth noting that professional tree climbers use throw bags and slick line to get a messenger over a tree limb. The throw bags are tough bags filled with around 12oz of ball bearings and the slick link is typically a 5mm rope made from slippery plastic. -- David Woolley The Elecraft list is a forum for the discussion of topics related to Elecraft products and more general topics related ham radio List Guidelines http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_list_guidelines.htm ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
I am not a professional tree climber and do not even play one on tv, BUT I recommend using a light rope with a plastic bottle partly filled with water as the throwing weight. That way, if the bottle breaks, u do not have 12 oz of ball bearings raining down on ur or ur neighbor's heads. Also, for the times u miss and the water bottle gets hung up in a tree, when it finally comes loose, all u get is a little wet and a light plastic bottle coming down! Also, same level of safety when the water bottle comes loose from the rope in mid flight. A slingshot or bow/arrow look great, but take care of down range hits. 73 Charles Harpole [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2008 12:14:11 +0100 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees Benny Aumala wrote: http://www.antennalaunchers.com/csv19/index.htm That URL seems to lead to a cybersquatter (the sort that gives you their search engine results). It might, though, be worth noting that professional tree climbers use throw bags and slick line to get a messenger over a tree limb. The throw bags are tough bags filled with around 12oz of ball bearings and the slick link is typically a 5mm rope made from slippery plastic. -- David Woolley The Elecraft list is a forum for the discussion of topics related to Elecraft products and more general topics related ham radio List Guidelines ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
What you need are a set of climbing poles, which needs the poles, 3 ropes and a weight. The climbing poles are very two long rods with a hook on the end of each able to slide along each other (but not tilt !). The poles extend via two ropes, one per pole attached to the base of that pole and to near the top of the other. Then you hook the first pole over a branch. Pull on a rope to extend the second pole and hook it over a higher branch. Continue branch by branch up the tree. This contraption can carry a weight attached to a third rope with a release mechanism (a breakable tie for example). When over the branch you want, pull the rope from the correct side so the weight comes over the branch and back down to ground. The climbing contraption also needs to be tied to the rope so you can unhook it from the lower branch. After this, curse the fact you forgot to tie the aerial to the rope and start again. Hard work. It is easier to fire up a weight in a catapult. To stop leaving failed projectiles (e.g. tennis balls) in the tree, make the projectile out of ice, it will then melt. -- View this message in context: http://n2.nabble.com/Elecraft-Antennas-in-trees-tp582760p585503.html Sent from the Elecraft mailing list archive at Nabble.com. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
Dan's comment is very true of *any* antenna, and most especially tree mounted antennas. To survive storms at all, it's very important that the antenna wire or the halyards *never* fall under strain from the tree as it moves in the wind. Even small trees can exert tons of pressure on the wire or halyard. I have an Inverted L with the end attached about 50 feet up in a 60 foot high Spruce tree. Two counterweight systems maintain sufficient tension on the antenna to keep it in place while allowing the anchor point in the tree to move at least 15 feet in high winds. One counterweight allows the main antenna end guy rope to change length as needed as the tree moves and the other allows the back stay that loops over the tree to move independently. The counterweights need to be heavy enough to hold the antenna, but not heavier than needed for that. When trees whip in the winds, the inertia of the counterweights can produce shock loads many, many times greater than the weights themselves for a brief moment until the weights begin to move. The heavier the counterweight, the greater its inertia and the shock load. My antenna survived two storms with hurricane-force 100+ MPH winds last winter, although the antenna counterweight did move almost its full travel as the tree swayed more than 10 feet at the 50-foot level. This summer I adjusted the system to allow more movement. Even so, the system needs to come down every couple of years to be inspected for chafing of the lines and to move the lines somewhat if you don't want them to damage the tree. Dan's suggestion is an excellent one. No sense in starting from scratch if the worst does happen! A few feet of extra line can make all the difference in the world. If we humans have learned anything at all, it's that anything human kind can erect nature can knock down! Ron AC7AC -Original Message- ... and, HOWEVER you get the ropes over the tree, they will someday fall. If the location is a good one, you may want to use it again. Rather than trying to hit that perfect branch again, I always include an extra rope, for after the fall. The extra rope is a continuous loop that reaches the ground and does not bear any weight. It is used simply to pull a new rope/antenna up after the current one falls. It looks like I have three ropes over the branch, but one holds the antenna and the other two are just both sides of the backup loop. I usually do my antenna launching in the winter when foilage is less, but the things come down whenever they please. With a loop over each good branch, I can pull up new rope/wire even in the middle of summer. Dan / WG4S / K2 #2456 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
On Sun, 2008-07-27 at 04:14, David Woolley (E.L) wrote: Benny Aumala wrote: http://www.antennalaunchers.com/csv19/index.htm That URL seems to lead to a cybersquatter (the sort that gives you their search engine results). It works if you delete the /csv19/index.htm part. It might, though, be worth noting that professional tree climbers use throw bags and slick line to get a messenger over a tree limb. The throw bags are tough bags filled with around 12oz of ball bearings and the slick link is typically a 5mm rope made from slippery plastic. I was absolutely amazed watching a guy from the local tree service use one of those things. He just grabbed the rope a couple feet from the bag, swung it in a circle a couple times, and effortlessly lofted it precisely over the desired branch about 50 feet in the air. Al N1AL ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
David Woolley (E.L) wrote: Benny Aumala wrote: http://www.antennalaunchers.com/csv19/index.htm That URL seems to lead to a cybersquatter (the sort that gives you their search engine results). It's http://www.antennalaunchers.com/csv19/index.html - with an 'l' at the end. It might, though, be worth noting that professional tree climbers use throw bags and slick line to get a messenger over a tree limb. The throw bags are tough bags filled with around 12oz of ball bearings and the slick link is typically a 5mm rope made from slippery plastic. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
I have one of those bags and they work very nicely, once you get the hang of the timing. I have yet to get over 30-35' in a vertical toss with accuracy. So far my best bet has been a 7.5' fishing rod with 60 lb test line and some weights, around 3/4 oz. If I miss and the weight comes down where I don't want it, I detach the weight and wind the line back very slowly so as to not entangle the line. At 60 lb test, one doesn't want to create too much whiplash and catch one in the head. Oh, did I mention safety glasses! 72, Bill K9YEQ K2 #35, K2 # 5279, KX1 #35, Mini Modules, etc. Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Alan Bloom Sent: Sunday, July 27, 2008 1:29 PM To: David Woolley (E.L) Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees On Sun, 2008-07-27 at 04:14, David Woolley (E.L) wrote: Benny Aumala wrote: http://www.antennalaunchers.com/csv19/index.htm That URL seems to lead to a cybersquatter (the sort that gives you their search engine results). It works if you delete the /csv19/index.htm part. It might, though, be worth noting that professional tree climbers use throw bags and slick line to get a messenger over a tree limb. The throw bags are tough bags filled with around 12oz of ball bearings and the slick link is typically a 5mm rope made from slippery plastic. I was absolutely amazed watching a guy from the local tree service use one of those things. He just grabbed the rope a couple feet from the bag, swung it in a circle a couple times, and effortlessly lofted it precisely over the desired branch about 50 feet in the air. Al N1AL ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Fw: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
i watched an arborist doing some work next door and he showed me the old man's toss. it is a between-the-legs toss and it really works well for me compared to the lariat toss. it uses the arms, legs and back and is directly in line with your spine. i went home and with very little practice i can now hit 50+ feet with no problem. this lets me launch a messenger line to take up my line saw with which i keep the trees near my dipole trimmed. 73 jim ab3cv ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
On Sun, 27 Jul 2008 11:47:54 -0700, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: The counterweights need to be heavy enough to hold the antenna, but not heavier than needed for that. When trees whip in the winds, the inertia of the counterweights can produce shock loads many, many times greater than the weights themselves for a brief moment until the weights begin to move. The heavier the counterweight, the greater its inertia and the shock load Yes. I have a half dozen dipoles suspended in redwoods, a Douglas Fir, and a Madrone at roughly 100 ft. I'm at 2,000 ft, about 5 miles from the Pacific, about 250 ft below the top of the ridge on the ocean side. Without weights, every antenna I installed was on the ground after the first real storm. Since I've installed counterweights, all have weathered 75 MPH winds for a couple of days. These antennas are heavy -- typically 150-250 ft spans, #10 copper, most with parallel #12 fan elements (to cover additional bands), and fed with RG8 or RG11. My weights are roughly 90-95#, and are made by simply filling 6.5gal water jugs with dry sand (roughly 1.5x heavier than water). Others have had good success by recycling the counterweights from vintage wood frame windows. I chose the tension by experimentally determining what it took to achieve the acceptable degree of droop. Counterweighting, of course, is only part of the story. When an antenna must withstand these kinds of forces, every element of their construction becomes critical. For this reason, I find nearly all of the commonly available center insulators for dipoles to be seriously lacking. The absolute worst was the RadioWavz unit. I bought two and used them to build 6M dipoles. Both fell apart when I pulled on the LM240 that attached to them! 73, Jim K9YC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
I've gotten my fair share of storms here too and rather than go the route of counter weights since I had to kinda skirt the side of a big cedar I opted for a rope method. I ended up tying two ropes together at the center point of the dipole. Then ran the rope up into the trees. The rope bears all the force (and it can take some HEAVY beating). Then the antenna is simply hung from the rope using crossed zipties around the spreaders (its a fanned dipole). This has lived through some pretty hair situations. I did lose a few feet of elevation one year but that was because the tree lost a limb and I fell down to the next branch! hihi. ~Brett (KC7OTG) On Sun, 2008-07-27 at 22:16 -0700, Jim Brown wrote: On Sun, 27 Jul 2008 11:47:54 -0700, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: The counterweights need to be heavy enough to hold the antenna, but not heavier than needed for that. When trees whip in the winds, the inertia of the counterweights can produce shock loads many, many times greater than the weights themselves for a brief moment until the weights begin to move. The heavier the counterweight, the greater its inertia and the shock load Yes. I have a half dozen dipoles suspended in redwoods, a Douglas Fir, and a Madrone at roughly 100 ft. I'm at 2,000 ft, about 5 miles from the Pacific, about 250 ft below the top of the ridge on the ocean side. Without weights, every antenna I installed was on the ground after the first real storm. Since I've installed counterweights, all have weathered 75 MPH winds for a couple of days. These antennas are heavy -- typically 150-250 ft spans, #10 copper, most with parallel #12 fan elements (to cover additional bands), and fed with RG8 or RG11. My weights are roughly 90-95#, and are made by simply filling 6.5gal water jugs with dry sand (roughly 1.5x heavier than water). Others have had good success by recycling the counterweights from vintage wood frame windows. I chose the tension by experimentally determining what it took to achieve the acceptable degree of droop. Counterweighting, of course, is only part of the story. When an antenna must withstand these kinds of forces, every element of their construction becomes critical. For this reason, I find nearly all of the commonly available center insulators for dipoles to be seriously lacking. The absolute worst was the RadioWavz unit. I bought two and used them to build 6M dipoles. Both fell apart when I pulled on the LM240 that attached to them! 73, Jim K9YC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
Ron, The information which I have sent to those who expressed interest contained a sketch which I believe would not be allowed in a post to the List. I could replace the diagram by some text if you think that I should post it, but unfortunately I won't be able to do that today. I hope that you have received the information. 73, Geoff GM4ESD Ron AC7AC wrote: Whatziz this off line stuff Geoff? I'm sure a number of us are interested. I know I am. Don't be afraid of the self-appointed list cops. There's only one moderator and he's heartily endorsed such digressions within reason. Experience shows that if it's something an Elecraft rig owner might be interested in to enjoy building, modifying or operating his rig, it's something that belongs here. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
Sorry for the off topic query but a few years ago I saw on this reflector a link to a site which showed a design for a system of two poles and cords which was used to drop a weight over a tree bow and get further up the tree by stages. I cannot use a projectile since there is a house immediately behind. Anybody spotted this design? Thanks Martin M0KWV, K1 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
-Original Message- Sorry for the off topic query but a few years ago I saw on this reflector a link to a site which showed a design for a system of two poles and cords which was used to drop a weight over a tree bow and get further up the tree by stages. I cannot use a projectile since there is a house immediately behind. Anybody spotted this design? Thanks Martin M0KWV, K1 ___ Don't know that technique Martin, but I have seen one or more party-type Mylar helium balloon - the kind sold in grocery stores, etc. - used successfully. It requires two people, sufficient room and quiet air. Two light threads are attached to the balloon(s). One thread is held by each person. The balloon is allowed to float up until it is well clear of the top of the tree, then one person walks around the tree to the opposite side, keeping the thread clear of branches, until in the desired position. Then one person pulls the thread in while the other lets thread out until the balloon is back at the ground level and the thread is draped over the tree. Now a string, then a cord, and finally a rope is attached and pulled over the tree. It's important that no power lines be where a runaway balloon and thread can reach them. Ron AC7AC ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
All you need is a dog, a cat and a rifle. Steve Ellington [EMAIL PROTECTED] - Original Message - From: Martin Evans [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, July 25, 2008 12:46 PM Subject: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees Sorry for the off topic query but a few years ago I saw on this reflector a link to a site which showed a design for a system of two poles and cords which was used to drop a weight over a tree bow and get further up the tree by stages. I cannot use a projectile since there is a house immediately behind. Anybody spotted this design? Thanks Martin M0KWV, K1 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.138 / Virus Database: 270.5.5/1571 - Release Date: 7/24/2008 5:42 PM ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
Hi Martin, By any chance are you thinking about the method I use? We discussed it a few years ago, please contact me off-List if you think that it might be. I have since 'refined' the hardware used to get up 100ft plus pine trees in roughly 25ft stages, which also allows accurate positioning of a line. 73, Geoff GM4ESD Martin Evans wrote on Friday, July 25, 2008 5:46 PM Sorry for the off topic query but a few years ago I saw on this reflector a link to a site which showed a design for a system of two poles and cords which was used to drop a weight over a tree bow and get further up the tree by stages. I cannot use a projectile since there is a house immediately behind. Anybody spotted this design? Thanks Martin M0KWV, K1 ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
RE: [Elecraft] Elecraft Antennas in trees
Whatziz this off line stuff Geoff? I'm sure a number of us are interested. I know I am. Don't be afraid of the self-appointed list cops. There's only one moderator and he's heartily endorsed such digressions within reason. Experience shows that if it's something an Elecraft rig owner might be interested in to enjoy building, modifying or operating his rig, it's something that belongs here. Ron AC7AC -Original Message- Hi Martin, By any chance are you thinking about the method I use? We discussed it a few years ago, please contact me off-List if you think that it might be. I have since 'refined' the hardware used to get up 100ft plus pine trees in roughly 25ft stages, which also allows accurate positioning of a line. 73, Geoff GM4ESD ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft- Antennas and trees
Hello Alan, Carrying or using a slingshot is illegal anywhere here in Scotland. Use of archery hardware has to be cleared by the police. The use of tennis balls is not restricted in any way. Maybe your website will answer my questions ( I shall be visiting) : With a Pneumatic Tennis Ball Launcher, can one put a line over a chosen branch at a desired spot , say 100 - 150ft up, assuming that a clear line of sight exists between launcher and chosen branch , and no wind gusts? And what is done to prevent the ball spinning around a branch and thereby making the effort useless ? I appreciate that practice makes perfect. I do know that lobbing a line over the top of a tree can be of little use except for temporary set-ups. By chosen branch I mean a branch that allows the final catenary / support rope to exit the tree without chafing against other branches or foliage in any weather conditions. I am looking for a method to replace the way I have been doing things which is a little slow - although I can put a line exactly where I want it at 120ft up. Height is not really a problem. 73,Geoff GM4ESD - Original Message - From: Alan WB6ZQZ [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, September 10, 2004 4:08 AM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Elecraft- Antennas and trees We use slingshots and archery in the forest (but they are generally illegal inside city limits or in residential areas), or Pneumatic Tennis Ball Launchers (legal in most areas). The pneumatics are safer than either arrows or lead sinkers, and capable of getting to 200 feet or more in height if needed. More info at http://www.qsl.net/wb6zqz/antlaunching.html -- Alan At 07:50 AM 9/9/2004, Hisashi wrote: On Thu, 9 Sep 2004 [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Geoff, how did you get a fixing on the tree at 80 feet! I have a poplar tree here at about 60 feet high but only got a fixing at 30 feet. I lost my bottle to climb any higher hi. ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
[Elecraft] Elecraft- Antennas and trees
Snip Bad news. Very sorry indeed. I agree with Ron about strain relief when using trees. A MUST in my opinion. Here I have a rope catenary up about 80 feet and about 200ft long, one end to a pine tree - the other to a hardwood. Both dance in the 100 mph winds we get at times, nothing like your winds. The rope is 6mm triple braided ultraviolet resistant for marine use. The pulleys also for marine use (sheets) with ball bearings and of the ENCLOSED type so that the chance of a flying twig jamming a pulley is much reduced. I had this happen years ago when using open pulleys. My counterweight is like Ron's but low tech. Don't have the bucket yet. Good luck and 73, GeoffGM4ESD Snip Geoff, how did you get a fixing on the tree at 80 feet! I have a poplar tree here at about 60 feet high but only got a fixing at 30 feet. I lost my bottle to climb any higher hi. Martin M0KWV K1 # 1534 Why not take a look at our Web site? http://www.simoncarves.com * The information in this email and any attachments may contain privileged and/or confidential information intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If the reader of this email is not the intended addressee, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the addressee, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify me by telephone or email and delete all copies immediately. * ___ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
